Well-deserved congratulations go to the owners and leaders of Duck’s Ice Inc., Lefthand Kreationz Inc., New Wine Christian Fellowship, Patela Construction Inc. and Tyrone’s Detailing/Towing.

Those St. John the Baptist Parish business and church locations received funding allocations this month as part of money made available in the Hurricane Isaac Small Business Loan and Grant Program.

Hurricane Isaac struck the River Parishes more than four years ago; yet, many in our community are still recovering from its negative impact.

St. John Parish officials said local government was awarded $32 million in grant funds in 2013 through the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program. A portion of those funds was earmarked in a grant-and-loan effort for business owners directly affected by Hurricane Isaac.

Funding was available in a 20 percent grant and 80 percent low interest loan program to purchase equipment and inventory or provide working capital associated with operations and recovery.

It’s nice to see, finally, some four years later, leaders with Duck’s Ice, Lefthand Kreationz, New Wine Christian, Patela Construction and Tyrone’s Towing can realize an opportunity to invest back into their operations and, in turn, further support our community.

Parish leaders said awards were granted to small businesses that completed the application process and were deemed eligible for assistance.

Grants Administrator Myra Valentine said St. John officials are pleased “to finally see” the money in the hands of “well-deserving” and “patient business owners.”

Valentine said the final four allocations are nearing, which would join five other local businesses that received funding before this month.